Oil: Algeria consolidates its presence in Niger and targets Bilma – La Nouvelle Tribune

The Bilma oil block is under evaluation as part of expanded cooperation between Algeria and Niger, following a two-day visit by Algerian Hydrocarbons Minister Mohamed Arkab to Niamey on September 21-22. Sonatrach continues exploration activities in the Kafra permit, where oil was discovered in 2018-2019, and has initiated a new program of four exploration wells in August 2026. The Bilma area, still in the assessment phase, is geographically close to Kafra, increasing its strategic importance. The partnership also includes commercial activities, with Sonatrach and Niger’s Sonidep conducting their first joint crude shipment to Benin in August 2026.